Jeff Whippo Shares Thoughts on Single-Loop Learning Versus Double-Loop Learning
An Introduction Jeff Whippo, a Ph.D. in Educational Psychology with a Doctorate in Business Administration says that according to Chris Argyris and Donald Schon, who originated the terms, “single-loop learning” is correcting an action to solve or avoid a mistake, while “double-loop learning” is also correcting the underlying causes behind the problem. Jeff believes that organizational learning is all about detecting and correcting error.
Single-Loop Learning ď ś Jeffery Whippo explains that single-loop learning happens when this process of identifying error enables the organization to carry on its present policies or achieve its objectives. ď ś Jeff indicates that a practical example of single-loop learning could be the automatic air conditioning thermostat in your home or office. ď ś The thermostat learns when it is either too hot or too cold inside and then turns the heat or air conditioning on or off to meet a set desired temperature.
Double-Loop Learning Jeffery D Whippo strongly believes that double-loop learning is more difficult than single-loop learning as it requires three skills: Self-awareness to recognize what is often unconscious or habitual Honesty or candor to admit mistakes and discuss with colleagues to discover and validate causes Taking responsibility to act appropriately on what is learned.
An Example That Explains the Two Forms of Learning ď ś Jeff Whippo says when production managers of a medical device company were detecting and attempting to correct an error in order to manufacture their new trocar, that was singleloop learning. ď ś However, Jeff explains, when the production managers and marketing managers began to confront the questions surrounding whether or not their new trocar should be manufactured at all, that was double-loop learning, due to the fact that they were now questioning underlying organizational policies and objectives.
Thank You Jeffery (Jeff ) D Whippo